A thousand golden suns.

It is easy to take a birthday for granted. Another year, another celebration. But is so much more than that. It is an opportunity to show our gratitude for a year that has passed, a year of life that we could be a part of. And it is exactly this gratitude and thankfulness that I experienced on my birthday this year.  There were no extravagant parties or balloons but I was completely overwhelmed by love and care by every person in my life. Every message, phone call, and Facebook post reminded me that the people in my life see me and appreciate me and that on its own was enough for me.  I didn't receive overly expensive or over the top presents but those I did get were given with such thought and love. That meant so much more to me that any price tag ever could. A journal in which I could scribble my heart's words, an Antjie Krog anthology which is inspiration enough to write my own, a basket full of Woolies surprises and a cake to share my celebrations with those closest

Fudge guarding the pool. Growing up, I was always blessed with the privilege of having dogs running around the yard. From a young age, we were taught to care for the dogs and yet to discipline them too (just like kids). These four-legged furry friends have made a tremendous impact on my life (they frequently decorate my social media), so as a tribute to all the dogs who left their paw prints on my heart I have compiled a list of the dogs that stole a piece of my heart and will always be a part of our family. 1. Nugget - The big friendly giant  There is a reason why Great Danes have the word "great" in their title. Nugget was named after the black shoe polish because he was pitch black with a white stretch on his chest. He was giant in heart and stature, instilling fear in every soul that crossed our threshold, only up to the point that they realized he would lick you to death before doing any damage. He sounded like a horse when he galloped around the yard and a